Looking at buying '01 EB--any input on areas to check??

[Racrman32]

Hi,

New here and thanks in advance for your input. I am looking at an '01 Eddie Bauer Expedition 4x4 and just curious if anyone has specific areas of concern I might pay extra attention too.
Vehicle Specifics:
Mileage: 114,000
engine: 5.4L, 16v
Air suspension:--Noisey compressor at start of test drive, have read about this on some other posts here, but my question is, if the system is not leaking how often does the compressor come on? Everytime you start, only after extended periods of sitting, i.e. hours, days???
Any general concerns with this motor/transmission?

Your input is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Chris

[mtuck]

The compressor will come on at start up to bring the vehicle up to driving height. If you switch to 4W low, the truck should raise up a couple more inches. Also, if you add a load to the back end, it might kick in to help balance out the load. If you look carefully during startup, you will see/feel the back end raise up a bit then alternate with the front end for a couple of cycles. If the compressor is really load you may want to change out the bracket that hold the compressor (about 30 bucks).

I have over 150K on mine and have only done routine maintenance: brakes, tires, trans fluid, oil, battery, power steering pump (small leak), fuel filter, pcv filter, air filter and compressor bracket. I love my '01 EB and am looking forward to many more miles with it.

Good luck.

[Racrman32]

Thanks MTUCK,

Appreciate your input, good to hear your having a good experience with your 01.

Chris

[XISophos]

Might want to drop by an alignment shop and have them check the ball joints and pitman arm. The factory ball joints didn't have any grease fittings, so over time they simply wear out. On my 97 I had to replace the upper control arms, and have new ball joints pressed into my lower control arms along with getting the pitman arm replaced as well. The end result was about $650. Not overly bad, but would be a consideration on the price I would be willing to pay for a vehicle on the front end.

One other thing I would do is to verify that the dealer has replaced the spark plugs prior to purchasing. They are a pain to do yourself, and will save you some headaches.

Hope this helps!